BookHuddle with Readgab

Poetry is not something that should be dreaded by students or adults. John shares how poetry can be found in multiple forms and can be a benefit to children and teens in many ways. Not only has John written a number of beautiful picture books, but John has a New York Times bestselling novel in verse, Louder than Hunger. Find author John Schuhttps://www.johnschu.com/https://www.instagram.com/mrschureads/?hl=enhttps://bsky.app/profile/mrschureads.bsky.socialhttps://x.com/MrSchuReadsLily-May's Joyful Day by John Schu https://www.amazon.com/Lily-Mays-Joyful-Day-John-Schu/dp/1536238627/Chapters00:00 Meet author and poet John Schu04:35 How poetry can be encouraged for all ages?20:00 What has poetry done for John Schu personally?24:16 How a child shared how a poem of John Schu’s helped them?26:44 Why is Louder than Hunger for someone who doesn’t struggle with a disorder?28:08 How can adults use John’s books to share poetry?30:16 The place picture books have for all ages, particularly upper grades.33:38 A time where John Schu remembers being read aloud to and felt loved.33:55 Reading aloud is love- is writing love too? How can adults use poetry as a form of love? As a form of writing?39:36 John Schu’s book recommendation

Kids love animal stories because kids love animals, but these stories can also teach us so much about ourselves and the world. 

Join Shakirah and I discussing one of my favorite books of the year, Here Lies a Ghost. The mystery of the moving coffins of the Chase Vault is one of the top 100 greatest unsolved mysteries in the world. Middle grade author Shakirah Bourne shares with us how she went from a young girl exploring the vault to a writer who crafted a ghost story that includes real people from history. After this interview go get your copy of Here Lies a Ghost by Shakirah Bourne.Here Lies a Ghost by Shakirah Bourne https://www.amazon.com/Here-Lies-Ghost-Shakirah-Bourne/dp/1546116907/Find author Shakirah Bournehttps://www.shakirahbourne.com/https://www.facebook.com/shakirahwrites/https://www.instagram.com/shakirahwritesChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Shakirah Bourne04:34 What is Here Lies a Ghost about?08:37 What happened concerning the Chase Vault unsolved mystery?11:25 Shakirah’s research for writing Here Lies a Ghost16:55 The enslaved individuals on Barbados and what Shakirah learned about this writing Here Lies a Ghost19:45 How a history of enslaving individuals effects how people are treated in Barbados today24:20 Why Shakirah wrote her book alternating between prose and verse and her experience writing in this style29:38 What is next for author Shakirah Bourne30:25 Shakirah’s book recommendation

There is so much going on in this discussion because there is so much going on in the incredible book, The Blue Dress, by Rebecca Morrison. We talk about body image, being your authentic self, being an immigrant, complicated mother/daughter relationships.Find author Rebecca Morrisonhttps://www.rebeccakmorrison.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamorrisonwriter/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rkmorrisonTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@contactrebecca?lang=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/rebeccamorrisonwriter/Twitter (X): https://x.com/contactrebecca LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-morrison-12bbb99/Website: https://www.rebeccakmorrison.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/rebeccamorrison.bsky.socialYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rebeccamorrisonwriterSubstack: https://rebeccamorrison.substack.com/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@rebeccamorrisonwriterThe Blue Dress by Rebecca Morrison https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Dress-Rebecca-Morrison/dp/0374393605/Jawbreaker by Christina Wyman https://www.amazon.com/Jawbreaker-Christina-Wyman/dp/0374389691/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade Author Rebecca Morrison03:39 What is The Blue Dress by Rebecca Morrison about?05:32 Complicated mother/daughter relationships and why Rebecca choose to write it for a middle grade book08:38 Had writing a book about her own experiences affected Rebecca’s relationship with her mother?12:41 Body image - how to feel happy and secure about our bodies16:47 Be an authentic self about being an immigrant20:37 How the author Rebecca would go about recommending a tween or teen read The Blue Dress25:50 What is next for author Rebecca Morrison?26:47 Rebecca’s book recommendation

Weird books are some of the best books! Michael Buckley shares his experience writing The Weirdies series in this author interview on BookHuddle where we learn to embrace and love the weird!Find middle grade author Michael Buckley https://www.michaelbuckleywrites.com/https://www.instagram.com/whatsupbuckley/Chapters00:00 Meet author Michael Buckley02:50 What is The Weirdies by Michael Buckley about?08:10 What is it like writing a weird book for Michael Buckley?10:36 What was it like creating an Audible original story?13:36 As you wrote did you try to consider how it would sound narrated16:35 Words that people use to describe The Weirdies that resonate with Michael22:37 The benefits of writing a weird book for children27:00 Embrace the weird. Help kids see that being different is ok30:00 What would The Weirdies give for advice37:46 What is next for author Michael Buckley?41:13 Michael’s book recommendations

Jen takes us behind the scenes in her writing the Isle of Ever and book 2, The Curse Breaker. We get to hear all about how it came together and maybe you'll have some questions at the end so maybe you should follow Jen Calonita on her socials and read all of the books in the Isle of Ever series. Find author Jen Calonita https://www.jencalonitaonline.com/https://www.instagram.com/jencalonita/https://www.tiktok.com/@jencalonitaofficialhttps://www.facebook.com/jencalonitabookshttps://www.threads.com/@jencalonitaIsle of Ever by Jen Calonita https://www.amazon.com/Isle-Ever-Jen-Calonita/dp/1464234426/The Curse Breaker by Jen Calonita https://www.amazon.com/Curse-Breaker-Isle-Ever/dp/172827706X/Chapters00:00 Meet author Jen Calonita - Also Cliffhangers07:40 What is the book Isle of Ever and the sequel The Curse Breaker about?10:04 What motivates author Jen Calonita in life?11:37 What personal family life inspired Jen Calonita to write Isle of Ever?14:09 How did Jen pace her writing for the Isle of Ever series?16:37 Adding new points of view to the sequel21:00 What are Jen’s hopes for readers when they read The Curse Breaker?24:42 Creating the main character, Benny29:35 Learning to be a kid and have fun31:50 What is next for author Jen Calonita?35:47 Jen’s book recommendations

In our lives we are always growing, always changing, and yet some aspects of us stay the same. We are never defined by just one thing; there is never just one thing going on in our lives. It is hard to explain A Scar Like a River with just one word. If I had to, I would say it is heavy or emotional, but I would hope that the hearer would remember that either of those words can mean so many things. A Scar Like a River is about a girl who was sexually abused as a child, and it is also about so many other things. It is fun and entertaining with Fallon dealing with family and friends and the school play and, yes, with the heavy effects of child abuse. This book flows like a beautiful river with intense parts, fun parts, and stunning parts. I enjoyed reading it, and I enjoyed chatting with Lisa Graff about A Scar Like a River. I hope that you will as well. Find author Lisa Graff https://www.lisagraff.com/https://www.instagram.com/lisagrafflovesbooks/https://www.facebook.com/lisagraffauthorhttps://www.pinterest.com/lisagrafflovesbooks/A Scar Like a River by Lisa Graff https://www.amazon.com/Scar-like-River-Lisa-Graff/dp/031657080X/The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman https://www.amazon.com/Undead-Deadwood-Forest-Newbery-Winner/dp/0316575739/Chapters00:00 Meet author Lisa Graff02:40 What is A Scar Like a River About?03:49 What inspired Lisa Graff to write A Scar Like a River?05:44 Was it intense to write a book about abuse?07:49 Was there anything that Lisa felt trepidation about in writing A Scar Like a River?08:35 What makes Lisa excited about A Scar Like a River?09:45 How adults can go about recommending A Scar Like a River to children?17:00 The River themes18:00 What it was like for Lisa to write A Scar Like a River?21:03 How did Lisa come up with the title for her middle grade book?24:27 Explaining is not Exculpating. Even though characters choices were not justified, why explain their choices?26:14 What helps Lisa process her thoughts and emotions28:47 What is next for author Lisa Graff?29:50 Lisa’s book recommendation

Middle grade author and winner of the Schneider Family Book Award Honor for her book The Strongest Heart talks to us about her newest book Some of Us Are Brave, how we can be brave and also how to make it a conversation with our kids.Find author Saadia Faruqi https://saadiafaruqi.com/https://www.instagram.com/saadiafaruqi/The Strongest Heart by Saadia Faruqi https://www.amazon.com/Strongest-Heart-Saadia-Faruqi/dp/0063115859/Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi https://www.amazon.com/Some-Are-Brave-Saadia-Faruqi/dp/0063389533/Piecing Me Together by Renee Watson https://www.amazon.com/Piecing-Me-Together-Ren%C3%A9e-Watson/dp/1681191059/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Saadia FaruqiWinner of the Schieder Family Book Honor06:20 What is Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi about?09:20 What do you do when you’re forced into a situation in which you must be brave?11:30 Why would someome choose to be brave if it wasn’t forced on them? What is the benefit of choosing to be brave?16:35 An example in Saadia’s life where she has taken baby steps in approaching her fears19:26 Why did Saadia include flood myths in her story?21:07 Researching the flood myths and how Saadia choose what to include?23:50 What do you hope readers will take away from your story?27:55 What is next for writer Saadia Faruqi?29:03 Saadia’s book recommendation

I had such a fantastic time reading Birdy and then talking to the author N. West Moss about how she crafted this beautiful story! We talk about the benefits of journaling, how reading and writing help us process our thoughts and emotions and so much more in this middle grade author interview!Find middle grade author N. West Moss https://www.nwestmoss.com/https://www.instagram.com/nwestmoss/https://www.facebook.com/west.moss/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/11630982.N_West_MossBirdy by N. West Moss https://www.amazon.com/Birdy-N-West-Moss/dp/0316446416/Podcast about children's booksChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author N. West Moss02:49 What is the book Birdy by N. West Moss about?04:06 What inspired West to write Birdy?05:10 The importance of the setting to the author06:47 Tell us about creating the naturalistic character09:47 Is author N. West Moss more of a city girl or a country girl?12:00 Character development - anything the author learned from the main character, what she loved about her13:48 Journaling for Birdy18:50 The benefits of journaling for kids22:25 How reading books helps us process thoughts and emotions27:17 Birdy’s younger brother mouse - writing a big age gap and creating their relationships30:44 What is next for author N. West Moss32:13 West’s book recommendation

Claire Swinarski created a beauitiful historical fiction/contemporary middle grade book called Each and Every Spark. I had a wonderful time talking to her about this story, how important it is to have good art during hard times and researching/creating a work of historical fiction. Also, we love good food!Find author Claire Swinarski https://www.claireswinarski.com/https://www.instagram.com/claireswinarski/Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski https://www.amazon.com/Each-Every-Spark-Claire-Swinarski/dp/0063321785/The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman https://www.amazon.com/Blackbird-Girls-Anne-Blankman/dp/1984837354/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Claire Swinarski04:19 What is Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski about?06:47 Why did Claire have art as a theme in this historical fiction book??How art is still important when the world is in turmoil?Appreciating art and what it can inspire others to do14:18 What led Claire to write historical fiction?17:01 Claire’s research for writing Each and Every SparkAnd What impacted her writing as she was in Paris19:23 Did anything surprise Claire in her research?22:03 What is Claire’s favorite French pastry?24:09 Character development with two very different people in two different time lines29:10 What advice would Claire’s characters give to young readers?31:16 what is best for the whole family unit35:26 What is next for Claire Swinarski as an author?37:28 Claire’s book recommendation

Children's stories can be fun, silly, entertaining, important, and thought-provoking all within one book. In this episode Shifa and I discuss both her chapter book series and her middle grade novel in verse. She talks about how both can be used to create meaningful conversations with kids and how some topics are best approached through the pages of a story. Find author Shifa Saltagi Safadihttps://shifasafadi.com/https://www.instagram.com/shifasaltagisafadi/Amina Banana and the Formula for Friendship by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Author), Aaliya Jaleel (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Banana-Formula-Friendship-Saltagi-Safadi/dp/0593699149/Amina Banana and the Formula for Making Money by Shifa Saltagi Safadi (Author), Aaliya Jaleel (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Amina-Banana-Formula-Making-Money/dp/0593699181/Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi https://www.amazon.com/Kareem-Between-Shifa-Saltagi-Safadi/dp/0593699289/Chapters00:00 Meet children’s book author Shifa Saltagi Safadi04:51 What are the Amina Banana books about? And the Formula for Friendship. And the Formula for Winning. And the Formula for making Money.10:41 Amina Banana is a story for all people12:22 How did Shifa decide on the themes for the “formulas” in the Amina Banana books?17:00 Using Amina books to have  conversations with our kidsNormalize people’s lived experiences, like Amina with her hijab19:59 Real experiences children have shared with Shifa about her books22:18 How can adults use Amina Banana for their kids?25:05 What is Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi about? The benefits of novels in verse29:50 What is next for author Shifa Saltagi Safadi?31:11 Shifa’s book recommendation

How do you pass the 'interview' to win the Newberry? How to keep a story short? And a whole lot of fun are in store for this middle grade author interview with Newberry Honor winner Daniel Nayeri.Find Daniel Nayerihttps://www.danielnayeri.com/https://www.instagram.com/danielnayeri/https://www.facebook.com/danielnayeriThe Teacher of Nomad Land by Daniel Nayeri https://www.amazon.com/Teacher-Nomad-Land-World-Story/dp/1646145666/The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams Newberry Honor Book https://www.amazon.com/Many-Assassinations-Samir-Seller-Dreams/dp/1646143035/The Bizarre Bazaar Mirror Town by Daniel Nayeri (Author), Liz Enright (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Bizarre-Bazaar-Mirror-Graphic-Novel/dp/0759556431/The Bizarre Bazaar Down a Dark Path by Daniel Nayeri (Author), Lesley Vamos (Illustrator) https://www.amazon.com/Bizarre-Bazaar-Down-Graphic-Novel/dp/075955644X/Glowrushes by Roberto Piumini (Author), Leah Janeczko (Translator) https://www.amazon.com/Glowrushes-Roberto-Piumini/dp/1681377500/Chapters00:00 Meet Newberry winning middle grade author Daniel Nayeri06:12 What are Daniel Nayeri’s Newberry Honor books about. The Many Assassinations of Samir the Seller of Dreams and The Teacher of Nomad Land11:28 Daniel’s reaction to winning the Newberry Award15:47 How to keep things short in writing middle grade and graphic novels? How did Daniel become a writer of a few words?21:00 What led Daniel to create The Bizarre Bazaar graphic novel series?What is the Bizarre Bazaar Down a Dark Path about?28:56 How can you use graphic novels in the classroom?30:35 How did Daniel find illustrators for his graphic novels The Bizarre Bazaar Tales Passing Strange and why there are different illustrators for each book in the series34:39 What is next for Daniel Nayeri with graphic novels, middle grade and picture books?42:18 Daniel’s book recommendations

What can you learn about yourself as you develop a relationship with another person? Or as you develop a relationship with an animal? How will you grow as an individual? Lynne Kelly's beautiful new book, Three Blue Hearts, is about a boy on a summer vacation where he rescues a hurt octopus and discovers a summer of love and growth that he didn't see coming.Find middle grade author Lynne Kelly https://lynnekellybooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/lynnekkelly/https://www.facebook.com/authorLynneKelly/Three Blue Hearts by Lynn Kellyhttps://www.amazon.com/Three-Blue-Hearts-Lynne-Kelly/dp/0593898397/The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate https://www.amazon.com/One-Only-Ivan-Katherine-Applegate/dp/0061992259/Chapters00:00 Meet Lynne Kelly03:39 What is Three Blue Hearts by Lynne Kelly about?07:10 What came first the setting or the character? The animal or kid main character?10:16 What did Lynne learn about Octopi when writing Three Blue Hearts? Interesting facts about Octopuses.12:10 Why does it work for Lynne to take a fascinating animal and then build a connection with a child main character?13:16 Max - the main character in Three Blue Hearts - reconciling your name to be your own, separate from anyone else’s identity17:50 How friendship helps strengthen individuals through the storms of life21:37 What is next for author Lynne Kelly?23:50 What species of animal does Lynne Kelly feel a special connection to?25:30 Do Octopuses have any similarities to humans? What we can learn from octopi?28:57 Lynne Kelly’s book recommendation

LeUyen is the illustrator of The Princess in Black series written by Shannon and Dean Hale as well as other books with Shannon. She has been an illustrator for 30 years now with over 140 books published and has also written/illustrated her own books. She was awarded the Caldecott Honor for the book Bear Came Along (written by Richard T. Morris). In this episode we chat about what it is like to be an illustrator and her relationships with other authors, editors, and readers. Find LeUyen Pham https://www.instagram.com/uyenloseordraw/The Princess in Black written by Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrated by LeUyen Pham https://www.amazon.com/Princess-Black-Triple-Smash-Three/dp/1536232890/Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina https://www.amazon.com/Caps-Sale-Peddler-Monkeys-Business/dp/020109147X/Chapters 00:00 Meet author/illustrator LeUyen Pham08:38 How did you get into a career as an artist?12:13 Using Princess in Black what is it like from start to finish as an illustrator working on a project?15:10 Adding illustrations that aren’t specified in the text, but enhance the book experience18:51 The joy of illustrating a series with 13 Princess in Black Books19:49 Does the publisher ever send back change requests for your drawings? 24:21 What medium do you like to illustrate with?28:06 Does the age you are drawing for effect the colors that you use?30:25 Author and illustrator and editor relationships 36:51 LeUyen Pham shares feedback received from kids 42:08 What is next for LeUyen Pham? 49:54 LeUyen’s book recommendation 

The last week of December Annisha from Reading in the Middle and I got together to talk about our most anticipated books of 2026. These are just some of the middle grade books that we are super excited to read this year. Keep listening to future episodes as we continue to read and discover more amazing children's books. And share with us which ones we missed and what you look forward to reading.Find Annisha Jeffries https://readinginthemiddle.blog/https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@readinginthemiddle⁩  https://www.instagram.com/reading_in_the_middle/Chapters 00:00 Most anticipated books of 2026 - The Whisperwicks book 3 by Jordan Lees03:53 The Moon Without Stars by Chanel Miller06:11 Guardians - The Forbidden Mountain by Brandon Mull09:19 The Star of Moon Village by Jennifer Ann Richter12:20 A Scar Like a River by Lisa Graff14:00 The Secret Winners Club by Donna Galanti16:00 Dragonborn book 2 The Twilight Child by Struan Murray18:00 Hattie Mae Begins Again by Sharon G. Flake21:30 Breakout by Christina Wyman23:41 The After School Kindness Crew by Goldie Hawn and Lin Oliver26:19 Some of Us Are Brave by Saadia Faruqi28:11 Ghost in the Night by Tiffany D. Jackson (Blood in the Water)30:43 Alice With a Why Return to Wonderland by Anna James33:10 The Claiming The Last Resort 2 by Jasmine Warga sequel to The Last Resort by Erin Entrada Kelly34:48 Hypergifted by Gordon Korman book 3 of Ungifted series38:10 Tech Week by Lindsay Champion sequel to Cast vs Crew40:25 Phoenix by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley43:05 The Bizarre Bazaar graphic novels by Daniel Nayeri book 1 Mirror Town and book 2 Down a Dark Path

There were so many wonderful middle grade books released in 2025, and in this episode Melissa Taylor and I discuss just some of the best books of 2025 from our lists. Want to hear more of my favorite books from 2025 then check out this episode next https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/42-the-best-books-of-2025-so-far-shannon-balloon/id1752315662?i=1000715323257Find children's book author and content creator Melissa Taylorhttps://imaginationsoup.net/https://www.instagram.com/imaginationsoup/https://www.facebook.com/ImaginationSoupChapters 00:00 Meet children’s book blogger Melissa Taylor from Imagination Soup03:30 The Free State of Jax by Jennifer A. Nielson06:32 Blood in the Water by Tiffany D Jackson08:39 The Beat I Drum / Holding on For Dear Life by Dusti Bowling13:18 The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser15:24 Silverborn The Mystery of Morrigan Crow of the Nevermoor series by Jessica Townsend19:14 The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner21:41 Neshama by Marcella Pixley24:11 Afia in the Land of Wonders by Mia Araujo26:05 Pocket Bear by Katherine Applegate29:17 Deepwater Creek graphic novel by Michael Regina31:18 The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black33:39 The Creature Clinic by Gavin Aung Than36:00 Tuck Everlasting the graphic novel adapted by K. Woodman-Maynard37:13 Will’s Race for Home by Jewell Parker Rhodes38:55 The Sherlock Society Hurricane Heist by James Ponti41:28 Please Pay Attention by Jamie Sumner46:09 The Burning Season by Caroline Starr Rose49:35 Old School by Gordon Korman

Meg Medina's newest middle grade book is a beautiful fantasy adventure about the relationship between a sea spirit and a unique living boy with a common goal. They may be from different worlds with completely different views, but this book has a treasure trove of themes, like the importance of community. Find Meg Medinahttps://megmedina.com/https://www.facebook.com/meg.medina.10/https://www.instagram.com/megmedinabooks/?hl=enhttps://www.tiktok.com/@megmedinabooksGraciela in the Abyss by Meg Medina https://www.amazon.com/Graciela-Abyss-Meg-Medina/dp/B0DJCT4BGY/The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez by Jasminne Paulino https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Orbit-Alex-Ramirez/dp/0593859316/Scattergood by H. M. Bouwman https://www.amazon.com/Scattergood-H-M-Bouwman/dp/0823457753/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Meg Medina03:31 What is Graciela in the Abyss about?07:47 A 15 year journey in writing Graciela in the Abyss18:06 The art by the Balbusso twins21:02 The importance of community32:18 What’s next for Meg Medina?35:10 Meg’s book recommendation

Have you ever wondered why reindeer pull Santa's sleigh? The picture book Dasher provides a beautiful origin story families and schools will love to add to the seasonal readings. Matt Tavares has added a new Dasher book this year with Dasher and the Polar Bear and it is my favorite one of the series! In this episode we talk about his creation of the story and art as well as beautiful themes within these picture books. Find author and illustrator Matt Tavareshttps://matttavares.com/https://www.instagram.com/tavaresbooks/https://bsky.app/profile/tavaresbooks.bsky.socialhttps://www.facebook.com/tavaresbooksDasher by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Dasher-Little-Changed-Christmas-Forever/dp/1536201375/Dasher and the Polar Bear by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Dasher-Polar-Bear-Matt-Tavares/dp/1536236314/Chapters 00:00 Meet Picture Book Author and illustrator Matt Tavares02:48 What is the Dasher origin story? How did Matt come up with the idea?05:22 What comes first the story or the art? And what art mediums are used to create the pictures in the book?09:59 Themes in Dasher - Hope12:17 What is home? Christmas Magic - book themes17:09 What is Matt’s hope that Dasher will do for families?18:57 What has Dasher done for the author and illustrator, Matt Tavares?21:23 What is next for Matt Tavares?22:27 Matt’s book recommendations

A captivating ghost story evolves into an intense family drama with strong themes of forgiveness, self-identity, and family. Neshama, this powerful novel in verse, brings all the feels of a middle grade adventure amid beautiful verses of poetry. In this episode Marcella Pixley and I discuss not only the beauty of this novel in verse but also questions of compassion, relationships, religion, and self-growth. Find middle grade author Marcella Pixleyhttps://marcellapixley.com/https://www.instagram.com/marcellapixleybooks/?hl=enhttps://www.threads.com/@marcellapixleybooks?xmt=AQF01WcgnxB9ZD_yF35Vil2eQf9Z68K_unXTESSSULz2hucNeshama by Marcella Pixley https://www.amazon.com/Neshama-Marcella-Pixley/dp/1536236616/The Girl in the Walls by Meg Eden Kuyatt https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Walls-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/1546110534/The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse: Inspiring Conversations on Hope, Love and Personal Growth by Charlie Mackesy https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Mole-Fox-Horse/dp/0062976583/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Chapters 00:00 Meet Marcella Pixley05:40 What is Neshama about?07:52 Why is it important to connect with and know our ancestors?13:10 Creating Neshama16:11 Was Neshama Marcella’s first novel in verse?Stopping to appreciate the poetry within the story.21:39 Themes of forgiveness in Neshama26:25 What has Shabbat done for you and your faith?33:40 What is next for middle grade author Marcella Pixley?35:26 Marcella’s book recommendations

Don't take life too seriously, have some fun too! If you could spend all day doing what you loved most, what would it be? Would you write silly stories that get published into graphic novels? Middle grade author Tom Angleberger shares with us about the creation of his graphic novel series, The Two-Headed Chicken, and why graphic novels make such great gifts for kids. Find author Tom Angleberger https://origamiyoda.com/https://www.instagram.com/tomangleberger/?hl=enThe Two-Headed Chicken https://www.amazon.com/Two-Headed-Chicken-Tom-Angleberger/dp/1536223212/Chapters 00:00 Meet Tom Angleberger07:16 Is writing a job for you? Or is it just fun?11:15 How did Tom Angleberger come up with the idea for the Two Headed Chicken series?15:44 Why do graphic novels make great gifts? Why are graphic novels important?21:02 Lessons in graphic novels?22:12 The publishers response to Two-Headed Chicken26:22 Where does Tom Angleberger get his book ideas?29:52 Tom’s question for me, what book would I have the two-headed chicken jump into?34:07 What is next for author Tom Angleberger?34:57 Tom’s book recommendation.

Those who have experienced the magic of a read aloud know they are a must in every home and classroom. Reading to children is so important and in this interview Kate shares some of the reasons why we should all find the time to read to children. Find Kate DiCamillohttps://www.katedicamillo.com/https://www.facebook.com/KateDiCamilloLost Evangeline by Kate DiCamillo https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Evangeline-Norendy-Tale-DiCamillo/dp/1420532197/Chapters 00:00 Meet Kate DiCamillo04:09 Why do you feel reading out loud to kids is important?07:03 What would you say to a teacher who says “I don’t have the time to read out loud to my class.”How to find the time to read to kids.08:53 Does reading aloud provide behavioral or emotional benefits?10:20 What ages do you read out loud to?12:55 What if someone is not comfortable reading out loud?14:51 After reading a story out loud what can we do to enhance the experience18:28 An experience where a read aloud of one of Kate DiCamillo’s books impacted someone else.21:26 Does Kate have a favorite book of hers to hear read out loud?22:50 Kate’s go to chapter for her to read out loud to a group.24:37 Why Kate writes short books with short chapters25:47 How being read to impacted Kate DiCamillo26:56 How Kate decides what to work on next28:50 What is next for Kate DiCamillo?29:43 Kate’s book recommendation

What happens when a group of extended family members who barely know each other spend a summer together on an island? Old family secrets arise. Is there a way to bridge old hurts and find ways to communicate? Can everyone learn that they are wonderful individuals just the way they are? Find middle grade author Erin Soderberg Downinghttps://www.erinsoderberg.com/https://www.facebook.com/ErinDowningBooks/https://www.instagram.com/erinsoderbergdowning/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0CUBkZOrmzhRU7bVDlDaaQWhat Happened Then by Erin Soderberg Downing https://www.amazon.com/What-Happened-Then-Soderberg-Downing/dp/1546124985/Hummingbird by Natalie Lloyd Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Erin Soderberg Downing04:05 What is What Happened Then by Erin Soderberg Downing about?09:00 The audiobook for What Happened Then with exceptional narration10:27 Powerful quotes from What Happened Then “Don’t Apologize because…”The qualities you already have are worth embracing15:45 How to be yourself?25:10 Building characters28:23 Having those conversations is the only way to break down barriers. The importance of communication35:08 A book full of emotions and hard topics that also includes lightness and humor39:17 What is next for author Erin Soderberg Downing?42:23 Erin’s book recommendation

A beautiful way to teach kids about Veterans Day is to use picture books and Jeff Gottesfeld has written some incredible ones with beautiful illustrations by Matt Tavares. In this interview I discuss with Jeff his inspiration for Honor Flight: Celebrating America's Veterans and Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Honor Flight will become available in March 2026 and you can pre-order now. Twenty-One Steps is available now. Find author Jeff Gottesfeldhttps://www.jeffgottesfeldwriter.com/https://www.instagram.com/jeffgottesfeldwriter/https://www.facebook.com/jeff.gottesfeldHonor Flight Celebrating American's Veterans by Jeff Gottesfeld illustrated by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Flight-Celebrating-Americas-Veterans/dp/1536230154/Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld and illustrated by Matt Tavares https://www.amazon.com/Twenty-One-Steps-Guarding-Tomb-Soldier/dp/1536201480/Chapters00:00 Meet author Jeff Gottesfeld03:01 What is Honor Flight by Jeff Gottesfeld about?04:47 How did Jeff get involved with an Honor Flight?06:11 Jeff’s personal experience with being a guardian on an Honor Flight09:19 Why is it important for kids to know about veterans?11:22 What can parents, teachers and librarians do to help kids become more aware of veterans?14:00 Jeff’s favorite Washington DC monument17:48 Was 21 Steps Jeff’s first military veteran type of book?19:25 Developing a relationship with your illustrator as a writer.21:40 What it is like to interact with veterans.23:48 Jeff’s journey as a writer and how he ended up doing picture books26:51 Jeff’s book recommendation

Brian Gonsar's recently published graphic novel for middle grade readers is wonderfully spooky without being scary. In our interview we discuss not only the creation of Dracula's Brunch Club, but also benefits of graphic novels and how you could use them in the classroom or at home with your own children.Find author Brian Gonsarhttps://www.bgonsar.com/bookshttps://www.instagram.com/bgonsar/Dracula's Brunch Club https://www.amazon.com/Draculas-Brunch-Club-Brian-Gonsar/dp/1637158408/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade graphic novel author Brian Gonsar.03:55 What is Dracula’s Brunch Club graphic novel about?04:56 What inspired Brian Gonsar to write Dracula’s Brunch Club?06:37 How did Dracula’s Brunch Club evolve into a graphic novel?08:58 How did Brian Gonsar find his illustrator Keenan Gaybba?11:10 What are the benefits of graphic novels?16:40 A spooky book that isn’t scary.21:08 What is next for author Brian Gonsar?25:52 Brian’s book recommendations

Do you have ADHD? Does someone you love have ADHD? Do you know anyone at all who has ADHD (yes, you do!) Then this picture book, All You Can Be With ADHD, is for you. It is a powerful picture book for kids with ADHD, but everyone who reads it will be better for it. Listen in to hear about how Penn and Kim Holderness created this brilliant book and how you could use it in your classroom or family.Find Kim and Penn Holdernesshttps://theholdernessfamily.com/https://theholdernessfamily.com/podcast/https://www.instagram.com/theholdernessfamilyhttps://www.facebook.com/TheHoldernessfamilyhttps://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@holdernessfamilylaughs⁩ https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@theholdernessfamily⁩  All You Can Be With ADHD by Penn and Kim Holderness and Vin Vogel as illustratorhttps://www.amazon.com/All-You-Can-Be-ADHD/dp/0316597678/ADHD is Awesome: A Guide To (Mostly) Thriving With ADHD by Penn Holderness and Kim Holderness (Authors), Edward Hallowell (Foreword)Everybody Fights: So Why Not Get Better at It? by Kim and Penn HoldernessChapters00:00 Meet Kim and Penn Holderness05:07 What is All You Can Be With ADHD picture book about?06:44 Why did Penn and Kim Holderness create a picture book about ADHD?11:35 What’s your advice for adults helping other adults understand individuals with ADHD?16:55 The process creating the Holderness ADHD picture book.23:46 Working with an illustrator to create the images in All You Can Be With ADHD - Vin Vogel27:37 Penn and Kim Holderness favorite image or line in All You Can Be With ADHD29:22 Was there a part that was difficult to put into the book?30:57 All You Can Be With ADHD is not just for kids with ADHD.32:03 How do you balance being compassionate with everyone around you who is neurodiverse and also with yourself?34:41 What do you tell yourself on the hard days?36:24 What do you hope others will say or think toward you during your hard moments?37:15 Kim and Penn Holderness children’s book recommendations

Many reluctant readers are pulled in by an incredible middle grade puzzle book. In this episode Chris Grabenstein and I discuss his newest book, Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest. Readers who loved the Mr. Lemoncello books are going to want to dive right into this new series. Find author Chris Grabensteinhttps://chrisgrabenstein.com/https://www.facebook.com/chris.grabensteinhttps://www.instagram.com/ChrisGrabenstein/Ms. Pennypickle's Puzzle Quest by Chris Grabenstein https://www.amazon.com/Pennypickles-Puzzle-Quest-Chris-Grabenstein/dp/0593707982/Max in the House of Spies and Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz https://www.amazon.com/Max-Land-Lies-Operation-Kinderspion/dp/B0DCYZX7SF/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade Author Chris Grabenstein05:07 What is Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest about?07:50 Chris Grabenstein’s family road trip.10:23 Why does Chris Grabenstein write puzzle books?12:15 How did Chris Grabenstein go about starting a new book series?15:10 Which of all Chris Grabenstein’s characters is most like him?16:55 Which of his characters would be Grabenstein’s best friend?17:45 How is Grabenstein’s book applicable to real kids?20:25 How have books changed from when you were reading as a kid to now?21:58 Rapid fire questions based on Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest for Chris29:10 What is next for Chris Grabenstein?32:22 Chris Grabenstein’s book recommendation.

Memories are an important part of our identities, but what happens when an individual loses some of their foundational memories? Could she get them back with the help of magic? In this episode we explore these and other questions while discussing C.M. Cornwell's debut middle grade book, The Memory Spinner. Find middle grade author C. M. Cornwell https://www.cmcornwell.com/https://www.instagram.com/cmcornwellwriteshttps://www.facebook.com/cmcornwellwritesThe Memory Spinner by C. M. Cornwell https://www.amazon.com/Memory-Spinner-C-M-Cornwell/dp/0593898761/Goose Girl Books of Bayern by Shannon Hale https://www.amazon.com/Goose-Girl-Books-Bayern/dp/1681193167/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade author C.M. Cornwell01:00 What is The Memory Spinner by Christina Cornwell about?04:43 Why did C.M. Cornwell write about memories?06:25 How would it alter a person to be without their memories?08:30 Developing a spinner or weaving magic system. The mythology tied to fiber arts (the art of spinning)12:15 Why write with magic?14:20 Why write about grief when experiencing your own grief?19:38 C.M. Cornwell’s difficult path to becoming a published author.27:45 C.M. Cornwell’s next book The Paper Ballerina and more books to come29:57 C.M. Cornwell’s book recommendation

Quiet kids are often told to speak up. But Kimberly knows that it is ok to be the quiet kid. In The Secret of Honeycake a story unfolds about a quiet girl who grows in her own ways, learning to speak up and yet remembering to love being quiet at times as well. There is so much to this beautiful story and I hope that you will take the opportunity to read it!Find author Kimberly Newton Fusco https://www.kimberlynewtonfusco.com/https://www.instagram.com/kimberlynewtonfusco/https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.n.fuscoThe Secret of Honeycake by Kimberly Newton Fusco https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Honeycake-Kimberly-Newton-Fusco/dp/0593121775/Louisiana's Way Home by Kate DiCamillo https://www.amazon.com/Louisianas-Way-Home-Kate-DiCamillo/dp/1536207993/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Kimberly Newton Fusco04:20 What is The Secret of Honey Cake About?07:25 Learning patience with a pet and other members of the family09:02 A True Blue Friend16:15 Being who you want to be - true to yourself22:37 Why is it important to know our own and others attributes?24:51 Benefits of journaling for kids.26:00 Using tides as symbols and in poetry - Do you feel we really are limitless?31:04 What is next for middle grade author Kimberly Newton Fusco36:20 Kimberly’s book recommendation

The London Blitz was scary enough, but combine it with a shadow monster? Middle grade author Ryan James Black has crafted an incredible spooky/historical fiction book that kids are going to eat up, The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham. We discuss his creation of this fantastic story as well as evoking emotion in writing and the need for connections with other people in our lives.Find author Ryan James Blackhttps://ryanjamesblack.com/https://x.com/ryanjamesblackhttps://www.instagram.com/ryanjamesblackhttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13890651.Ryan_James_BlackThe Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Times-Nimble-Nottingham/dp/0593698061/The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson https://www.amazon.com/House-Chicken-Legs-Sophie-Anderson/dp/1338209973/Hoodoo by Ronald L Smith https://www.amazon.com/Hoodoo-Ronald-L-Smith/dp/0544445252/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Ryan James Black04:40 What is The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham about?07:33 How did Ryan go about creating a genre smash in the Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham?10:09 The story behind the shadow monster in mythology13:14 How author Ryan James Black evokes emotion through description15:57 Why are making connections important for people? And how do you make relationships ring true?21:13 What do you recommend to a child not seeing a need for connections to other people?23:34 What is next for author Ryan James Black?26:20 Ryan James Black’s book recommendations28:49 What’s spooky for one person might not be scary for someone else

K. Woodman-Maynard and I discuss what it was like for her to adapt the classic middle grade book Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel. We also explore the Tuck Everlasting themes of grief and death. Find author, illustrator, graphic novelist, comic coach K. Woodman-Maynardhttps://www.woodmanmaynard.com/https://www.instagram.com/woodmanmaynard/https://woodmanmaynard.substack.com/linkedin.com/in/katharine-woodman-maynard-06508460/https://www.tiktok.com/ ⁨@woodmanmaynard⁩  Tuck Everlasting The Graphic Novel by Natalie Babbitt adapted to graphic novel by K. Woodman-Maynard https://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Everlasting-Graphic-K-Woodman-Maynard/dp/0374391866/Flip Side the graphic novel by Jason Walz https://www.amazon.com/Flip-Side-Graphic-Novel/dp/0593617991/Chapters00:00 Meet graphic novelists and comic coach K. Woodman Maynard03:04 What is Tuck Everlasting about?03:55 How did K Woodman Maynard get into adapting classic novels into graphic novels?06:15 The first time you ever read Tuck Everlasting.07:30 The steps of adapting the classic novel Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel.10:48 The most difficult part of adapting Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel?11:55 Most enjoyable or most rewarding part of adapting Tuck Everlasting into a graphic novel?12:50 Using images in Tuck Everlasting graphic novel to convey themes?15:58 Which character do you most resonate with or which character do you feel a special connection to?17:50 The theme of grief in Tuck Everlasting25:07 What is next for graphic novel author K. Woodman Maynard?26:30 Books K. Woodman Maynard recommends (fiction and graphic novels)

Dragon fantasy and dystopian books are right up my alley. So combine the two and BAM! You have an amazing storyline by middle grade author Mari Mancusi. In this interview we discuss not only what inspired writing New Dragon City and Dawn of the Dragons, but also why it is important to 'accept the fact that other people are going to feel different than you and figure out a way to still include them in your life.'Find middle grade author Mari Mancusi http://www.marimancusi.com/https://newdragoncity.com/https://www.instagram.com/marimancusihttps://x.com/marimancusihttps://www.tiktok.com/@marimancusi8New Dragon City by Mari Mancusi https://www.amazon.com/New-Dragon-City-Mari-Mancusi/dp/031637668X/Dawn of the Dragons by Mari Mancusi https://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dragons-New-Dragon-City/dp/0316588164/The Official Wednesday Cookbook: The Woefully Weird Recipes of Nevermore Academy by Mari Mancusi (Author), Jarrett Melendez (Author) https://www.amazon.com/Official-Wednesday-Cookbook-Woefully-Nevermore/dp/0593797884/Omega City by Diana Peterfreund https://www.amazon.com/Omega-City-Diana-Peterfreund/dp/0062310860/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Mari Mancusi03:02 What is New Dragon City about? What is the prequel, Dawn of the Dragons about?08:45 Why is it important to approach misunderstandings as a theme?13:49 How could a real life child relate to a character from your book? A book about divorce16:02 Why is it important to try and see things from the dads point of view?18:50 Why is it important to have multiple types of people in a society?22:33 Why do you love fantasy?23:29 If you could bond with an animal, what would it be?25:37 What is next for Mari Mancusi?28:10 Mari’s book recommendation.

Raj Sidhu has crafted a brilliant work of fiction about a group of kids that get pulled into their favorite role playing game. If you are looking for a silly laugh out loud adventure then look no further. In addition to talking about the need for these fun books for kids, Raj and I discuss helping kids see their potential and feel unconditional love from those in their lives.Find middle grade author Raj Sidhuhttps://www.rajsidhu.org/https://www.instagram.com/rajhansidhu/Thrash Force by Raj Sidhu https://www.amazon.com/Thrash-Force-Raj-Sidhu/dp/0316577162/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Raj Sidhu03:58 What is Thrash Force by Raj Sidhu about?07:07 What inspired Raj to create Thrash Force10:22 Who illustrated Thrash Force?  Billy Yong11:00 Why is there a need for laugh out loud, ridiculous books for kids21:26 How do you think we can help kids see their potential?28:30 What is next for author Raj Sidhu?29:44 Raj’s book recommendations

Middle Grade Author Meg Eden Kuyatt shares about her newest novel in verse, The Girl In The Walls. Meg is autistic and shares powerful personal reasons for writing neurodiverse characters. This episode will resonate with you if you are neurodiverse or if you have a loved one who is. It can also be a way for you and kids to gain empathy and connect with those who are neurodiverse. Find author Meg Eden Kuyatthttps://www.megedenbooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/meden_author/https://www.facebook.com/megedenwritespoems/The Girl in the Walls by Meg Eden Kuyatthttp://amazon.com/Girl-Walls-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/1546110534/Good Different by Meg Eden Kuyatt https://www.amazon.com/Good-Different-Meg-Eden-Kuyatt/dp/133881611X/Neshama by Marcella Pixley https://www.amazon.com/Neshama-Marcella-Pixley/dp/1536236616/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Meg Eden Kuyatt02:10 What is The Girl in the Walls about?03:29 What inspired you to write in verse? What inspired the story for The Girl in the Walls?07:02 Why is it important to have books with main characters who are neurodiverse?11:11 Different generations have handled neurodiversity differently12:06 Emotions are so powerful, how do we handle our emotions? Don't let emotions pilot you17:28 What do you think are first steps in moving forward when relationships have been hurt?23:07 How do you start in your relationship in working with a neurodiverse individual?29:29 The cover for The Girl in the Walls30:33 What is next for middle grade author Meg Eden Kuyatt?32:26 What do you hope children and adults get from your books about neurodiverse characters?33:44 Meg’s book recommendation

Who has not wondered at some point in their lives, where do I belong? In this episode, middle grade author Kaela Rivera and I discuss her fantasy series Cece Rios. We explore how experiencing each other's cultures can foster respect and help us all better understand each other and bring us closer together. In addition to better understanding others, Cece Rios also delves into that age-old question, where do I belong? Find author Kaela Rivera https://www.kaelarivera.com/https://www.instagram.com/kaelacub/https://www.facebook.com/kaela.rivera.12327?ref=bookmarksCece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera https://www.amazon.com/Cece-Desert-Souls-Kaela-Rivera/dp/0062947559/LEGO® DREAMZzz: Dream Chasers and the Riddle-Spokens by Kaela Rivera https://www.amazon.com/LEGO%C2%AE-DREAMZzz-Dream-Chasers-Riddle-Spokens/dp/0593484770/The Book Thief by Markus Zusak https://www.amazon.com/Book-Thief-Markus-Zusak/dp/0375842209/Chapters 00:00 Meet middle grade author Kaela Rivera and how she ended up writing for Lego books06:17 What is Cece Rios about?09:45 Finding what the real essence of courage is.13:50 What inspired you to create Cece Rios?23:30 Growing up in a home with 2 cultures, growing up a halfy, influenced Kaela Rivera’s writing.25:35 Everyone experiences feeling like they don’t fit in.30:49 Experiencing each other’s cultures brings us closer together.34:15 Kaela’s book recommendation39:39 What’s next for middle grade author Kaela Rivera?

If you've read The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez you may have noticed that this book is full of emotion. That is because the topics and story are personal for middle grade author, Jasminne Paulino. In this episode we discuss the creating of The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez and how to best help neurodiverse children be their best selves.Find author Jasminne Paulino https://jasminnepaulino.com/https://www.instagram.com/jasminne.notes/?hl=enThe Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez by Jasminne Paulino https://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Orbit-Alex-Ramirez/dp/0593859316/Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina https://www.amazon.com/Merci-Su%C3%A1rez-Changes-Gears-Medina/dp/153621258X/Corduroy by Don Freeman https://www.amazon.com/Corduroy-Don-Freeman/dp/0140501738/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Jasminne Paulino02:19 What is The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez about?05:43 What inspired you to write this book?08:47 What do you hope readers will take away from your book?11:50 Do you think that all people are capable of achieving something great?13:25 How can adults help kids find their great? How can they avoid embarrassing the kids?15:57 How can adults help kids advocate for themselves?17:08 How can we help kids see the need to advocate for themselves? Why is it important for them to advocate for themselves?21:15 How do we help kids see a reason for differing opinions and reactions and help them know how to respond to these different perspectives.26:17 Tell us about creating the title The Extraordinary Orbit of Alex Ramirez29:51 Jasminne’s book recommendations

Anxiety comes in many forms. Often it looks different for kids than for adults. Erin Stewart has crafted an incredible story about a couple kids with very different anxieties. Magic is woven into the pages of this incredible story with intense topics. For more books about similar topics check out this author interview next https://youtu.be/wkPbCN21l74?si=c4hGq7tLCB5hvF5TFind author Erin Stewart https://erinstewartbooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/erin_n_stewarthttps://www.tiktok.com/@erinstewartwriteshttps://www.facebook.com/erinstewartwritesThe Forgotten Magic of Zoey Turnerhttps://www.amazon.com/Forgotten-Magic-Zoey-Turner/dp/1665952261/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Erin Stewart05:00 What is The Forgotten Magic of Zoey Turner by Erin Stewart about?07:14 Why did you write a character with anxiety?12:35 Supporting characters - Derrick aka Tuna16:15 Supporting characters - Lena - seeing a friend grow up and move on20:07 Is Magic Just for Kids?25:06 Is life black and white? What’s the benefit of letting go of black and white?29:25 What’s next for author Erin Stewart?31:10 Erin’s book recommendation

Middle grade author Judith Rossell has a new captivating book out. In this episode we discuss the creating of The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls ("Unwanted Girls" in the Australian Title) and themes like Hope and Confidence. Find author and illustrator Judith Rossellhttps://judithrossell.com/https://www.facebook.com/JudithRossellBooks/https://www.instagram.com/JudeRossellThe Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls https://www.amazon.com/Midwatch-Institute-Wayward-Girls/dp/B0DGC2B4NH/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Judith Rossell04:20 What is The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls About?06:14 How did you create the setting and characters for The Midwatch Institute of Wayward Girls?11:50 Author Judith Rossell is also the illustrator of her books, but what does she create first?13:19 What does it mean for someone to be useful?18:28 Empowering your characters to have hope in a way that you can pass on to readers.24:00 Helping someone build confidence28:58 What does it mean to be brave?31:35 Judith Rossell’s book recommendations

J.A. White is a middle grade author of some fantastically spooky books including: Nightbooks (a Netflix film), Gravebooks, Shadow School, The Thickety, and his newest book, Wish Monster. In this episode we focus on his books Wish Monster and Nightbooks, but also talk overall about the need for dark stories for kids. Be sure to watch out for J.A. White's newest book coming next month, Dark and Darker Still Stories. For more interviews by authors of spooky books check out these videos next https://youtu.be/GUPa4xdCoH4?si=wE_RaTz9cFcu9emq and https://youtu.be/NzlIo2GhrJU?si=y-dyrVtlhPFMoFhjFind middle grade author J.A. Whitehttp://jawhitebooks.com/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5976337.J_A_WhiteWish Monster by J.A. White https://www.amazon.com/Wish-Monster-J-White/dp/0063082063/Nightbooks by J.A. White https://www.amazon.com/Nightbooks-J-White/dp/0062560085/Chapters00:00 Meet Middle Grade author J.A. White03:05 What is Wish Monster by J.A. White about?04:20 What is the problem with having wishes granted?05:50 How did Wish Monster come into being?06:49 What do you hope a kid would take away from reading Wish Monster?08:39 What is Nightbooks about?11:00 Why is there a need for spooky or dark middle grade books?14:20 What was it like to have a book you wrote made into a film?15:42 What did you love about watching the movie based on your book?17:28 What was something that was a small part of the book, that took you a lot of time?19:45 What would you wish for without worrying about consequences?20:55 What is next for author J.A. White? Dark and Darker Still, short stories coming out in Sept24:15 J.A. White’s book recommendation26:18 What would your youthful self want your adult self to write?

Kids will love this amazing fantasy about an usher for deceased animals in an eternally autumn forest. In this episode middle grade author, Aubrey Hartman, and I discuss some of my favorite thoughts from The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest. For more interviews of authors of middle grade fantasy check out another podcast episode about children's books https://youtu.be/QppjLjS1luE?si=x_KF9PkfdUSPyQ6WFind Aubrey Hartmanhttps://aubreyhartman.com/https://www.instagram.com/aubrey_hartman/The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman https://www.amazon.com/Undead-Fox-Deadwood-Forest/dp/0316575720/The Lion of Lark-Hayes Manor by Aubrey Hartman https://www.amazon.com/Lion-Lark-Hayes-Manor-Aubrey-Hartman/dp/0316448222/Okay for Now by Gary Schmidt#middlegradebooks #middlegradefantasy #authorinterview #children's book podcastChapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Aubrey Hartman05:03 What is The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest About?07:30 How love and grief go together? Themes in books.10:30 How to face and overcome insecurities?13:55 Finding self love17:50 What motivates us to do what we love in life? Or do we come to love them because we do them?20:00 How can we prevent misunderstandings?25:56 Why acknowledge painful memories? Is there a need?28:55 What is next for Aubrey Hartman?28:55 Aubrey Hartman’s book recommendation.

There are so many times in life where our fears come to us without our permission. Do we acknowledge them? Face them? Turn away? Caroline and I discuss these questions based on her incredible middle grade novel in verse, The Burning Season. We also talk about things like whether or not to leave home and how both options can be good choices.For more author interviews check out this episode next https://youtu.be/u1oOhee7B_I?si=ICVJiCAY-u-D5Ftn#middlegradebooks #childrensliterature #authorinterview #childrensbookpodcastFind middle grade author Caroline Starr Rosewww.carolinestarrrose.comThe Burning Season by Caroline Starr Rose https://www.amazon.com/Burning-Season-Caroline-Starr-Rose/dp/0593617932/The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman by Gennifer Choldenko https://www.amazon.com/Tenth-Mistake-Hank-Hooperman/dp/1524718955/Chapters00:00 Meet Caroline Starr Rose middle grade author of The Burning Season and author ice breaker02:40 What is The Burning Season, middle grade novel in verse, about?06:20 How did you get into writing novels in verse?10:47 Why do people leave home? And why do people come back?16:50 The power of acknowledging a fear21:14 Facing our fears23:04 The Hatchet by Gary Paulsen tie ins25:10 Something Caroline learned in writing The Burning Season27:35 What do you hope for Opal, the main character, going forward after the story ends?28:45 What’s next for author Caroline Starr Rose30:37 Caroline’s book recommendation

What are the best middle grade books that have released in 2025? Shannon Balloon from Middle Grade Matters and Karen Reeder from Book Huddle talk about their favorites of the year so far. There were so many new wonderful books released January through June this year that we didn't have time to talk about them all. Check out our socials and other podcast episodes to hear more about the rest of these amazing new releases!BookHuddle https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIKGkApvUuSFcalbEr6NvQdX9qgiPUxyr&si=i3QgKEG6xKPoq6EQMiddle Grade Matters https://www.shannonballoon.com/podcasthttps://www.instagram.com/middlegradematterspodcast/https://www.instagram.com/readgab/Chapters00:00 Meet the hosts behind Middle Grade Matters and Book Huddle podcasts4:50 Inkbound Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo by Philippa Leathley06:50 The Secret of Honeycake by Kimberly Newton Fusco09:00 Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz11:45 Candle Island by Lauren Wolk14:55 Right Back at You by Carolyn Mackler17:48 Away by Megan Freeman23:22 The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest by Aubrey Hartman27:10 Theodora Hendrix series by Jordan Kopy29:08 Afia in the Land of Wonders by Mia Araujo31:06 All My Best by Britnee Meiser35:51 The Gate, The Girl and the Dragon by Grace Lin38:20 Graciela in the Abyss by Meg Medina

In this episode we discuss themes from the amazing New York Times best seller, The Gate, The Girl And The Dragon by middle grade author Grace Lin. Find more great author interviews https://youtu.be/qUHRchnB8Cw?si=V1yY1LZVd5TKa4TUFind author Grace Linhttps://gracelin.com/https://www.instagram.com/pacylin/https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGraceLin/https://www.youtube.com/user/gracepacy#middlegradebooks #authorinterview #childrensliterature The Gate, The Girl, And The Dragon by Grace Lin https://www.amazon.com/Gate-Girl-Dragon-Deluxe-Limited/dp/0316478326/The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang by Stan Yan https://www.amazon.com/Many-Misfortunes-Eugenia-Wang/dp/1665943327/Chapters00:00 Meet children’s book author Grace Lin04:24 What is The Gate The Girl and The Dragon About?06:43 What inspired Grace to write another novel?Plotter or Pantser?11:57 What comes first, the illustrations or writing the story?12:27 Creating the lion cub character. Play vs responsibility17:54 Are the spirits like those in this story still an important part of Chinese culture?20:40 The importance of not only giving help but also receiving help22:09 Two viewpoints in all opportunities in life25:00 Appreciate the overlooked 27:21 Families in the book- showing the parent’s journey as well as the child’s journey31:15 What is next for Grace Lin?33:07 Grace’s book recommendation

We are joined by middle grade author Allie Millington to discuss her most recent book, Once for Yes. We talk about how she writes from unique perspectives including those of an old building and a typewriter. We also discuss the importance of community, the need for other people in our lives, why everyone needs to be seen, and the importance of imagination. Find author Allie Millingtonhttps://www.alliemillingtonbooks.com/https://www.instagram.com/allieinink/https://www.facebook.com/allie.mandleOnce for Yes by Allie Millington https://www.amazon.com/Once-Yes-Allie-Millington/dp/1250326982/Olivetti by Allie Millington https://www.amazon.com/Olivetti-Allie-Millington/dp/1250326931/#middlegradebooks #authorinterview #videopodcast Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Allie Millington05:39 What is Once for Yes by Allie Millington about?06:47 Everyone needs to be heard of, appreciated, be seen.08:58 The importance of community, wherever we’re at we can find strength in the community we’re in. Creating a diverse cast in the Odenburgh12:17 It’s hard to carry someone emotionally. Why do you write unique perspectives?15:16 What is the point in getting attached?18:15 Using your imagination was one of the most serious things you could do?20:34 What’s next for Allie Millington middle grade author?22:41 Allie’s book recommendation

Middle grade author, Ben Guterson, joins us to discuss his newest book, The Shadow of the World-Famous Nine. If you love a good mystery and solving puzzles while reading a story, the World-Famous Nine is for you. Like many authors, Ben's main goal with his books is to entertain, but we also find some deeper thoughts within the pages of this magical adventure. We discuss willpower, what it means to be in control of your own mind, the benefits of calming the mind, how seeing things in a new light can be the answer to your problem (or the main characters series of puzzles within the story).Find middle grade author Ben Guterson onlinehttps://benguterson.com/https://www.instagram.com/ben.guterson/The World-Famous Nine by Ben Guterson https://www.amazon.com/World-Famous-Nine-Ben-Guterson/dp/031648444X/The Shadow of the World-Famous Nine by Ben Guterson https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-World-Famous-Nine/dp/0316484741/The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke https://www.amazon.com/Thief-Lord-Cornelia-Funke/dp/0545227704/#middlegradebooks #childrensbooks #videopodcast #authorinterview Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Ben Guterson04:20 What is The World Famous Nine and The Shadow of the World Famous Nine About?09:50 Creating puzzles for a story13:26 Willpower and how much other people’ actions influence our own minds - how are we in control our own minds?20:20 How to calm our minds and also seeing things in another light25:02 Forgiveness and having someone to believe in you29:45 Ben Guterson’s book recommendation

What if there was a school where every person was welcome? From all backgrounds. Where diversity in all of its forms is truly seen. Middle grade author, Dhonielle Clayton, joins us to discuss her incredible series, The Conjureverse. The New York Times bestselling series currently has three books out and includes some amazing themes that kids and adults will love. Find Dhonielle Claytonhttps://www.dhonielleclayton.com/https://www.instagram.com/brownbookworm/https://www.facebook.com/DhonielleThe Marvellers by Dhonielle Claytonhttps://www.amazon.com/Marvellers-Dhonielle-Clayton/dp/1250174945/The Memory Thieves by Dhonielle Clayton https://www.amazon.com/Memory-Thieves-Marvellerverse-2/dp/125017497X/The Deadly Fates by Dhonielle Clayton https://www.amazon.com/Deadly-Fates-Conjureverse-3/dp/1250874823/Valentina Salazar is not a Monster Hunter by Zoraida Córdova https://www.amazon.com/Valentina-Salazar-not-Monster-Hunter/dp/1339039532/The Devouring Wolf by Natalie C. Parker https://www.amazon.com/Devouring-Wolf-Natalie-C-Parker/dp/059320395X/#middlegradebooks #authorinterview #videopodcast Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Dhonielle Clayton03:33 What is The Conjuverse about (The Marvellers)05:15 Meet the supporting characters08:33 Why is it important to have a full cast of diverse characters in a book?11:20 How politics affect children?15:35 The book is told through different media as well20:12 Living in two worlds23:15 Why is it important to understand each other? Books are the best tools for empathy.25:57 Any unexpected themes in your books?30:26 What is next for Dhonielle Clayton?32:32 Dhonielle’s book recommendatcions

Summer is the perfect time to read scary stories! Wendy's middle grade spooky story, Stage Fright, is such a great book for older kids and adults alike. Find it anywhere books are sold, including Walmart, as it is one of their Summer Reading 2025 Book Picks this year. Check out this video next for more great books to read https://youtu.be/rLeZPIxylLw?si=wklo_h8O3Sb-cWnGFind middle grade author Wendy Parrishttps://www.wendyparris.com/Instagram, Bluesky, Threads: wendyparrisauthor#middlegradebooks #spookystories #authorinterview Stage Fright by Wendy Parris https://www.amazon.com/Stage-Fright-Wendy-Parris/dp/0593807995/Field of Screams by Wendy Parris https://www.amazon.com/Field-Screams-Wendy-Parris/dp/0593570006/It Came From the Trees by Ally Russell https://www.amazon.com/Came-Trees-Ally-Russell/dp/0593646975/Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt https://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Everlasting-Natalie-Babbit/dp/0312369816/Chapters00:00 meet middle grade author Wendy Parris06:26 Why do people like to be scared?07:35 What is Stage Fright by Wendy Parris about?10:16 Do you think it is important to face fears?12:26 Fear of change during preteen and teenage years15:28 How does moving affect kids?17:53 Creating Wendy’s amazing dual meaning titles22:37 Stage Fright chosen by Walmart for 2025 summer reads books24:51 Wendy’s book recommendation

Stuart Gibbs newest book, FunJungle: All Ears, just came out and it is not only such a FUN book, it also has some powerful themes. For instance, can you have respect for someone who feels differently on a subject that you are passionate about? Find out Stuart Gibbs thoughts in this interview. Find middle grade author Stuart Gibbshttps://stuartgibbs.com/https://www.instagram.com/stuartgibbs1/FunJungle: All Ears by Stuart Gibbs https://www.amazon.com/All-Ears-FunJungle-Stuart-Gibbs/dp/1665956488/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Lafcadio, The Lion Who Shot Back by Shel Silverstein https://www.amazon.com/dp/0060256753?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title#middlegradebooks #authorinterview #kidsbooks Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Stuart Gibbs and author ice breaker04:57 What is FunJungle: All Ears about07:17 How do you come up with your ideas?09:55 Did you always want to write mystery?12:15 Do you outline your books?14:10 How to treat someone with respect who has different views than you?19:05 Have you ever been surprised by a takeaway that a reader told you about?19:57 What can an adult do to help a child learn how to have conversations with someone who has a different opinion than them?27:16 Stuart’s book recommendation

What if you couldn't remember several years of your life? What effect would that have on you? What would happen if you could get those memories back? Dana Robertson takes us on a fantastical adventure that has been compared The Goonies and The Chronicles of Narnia. Find author Dana RobertsonAuthor Website link: www.danarobertsonbooks.com Publisher Website link: Abandoned Theater, The from Our StreetInstagram @drobertsonbooks: Instagram Tiktok @drobertsonbooks (76)Drobertsonbooks (@drobertsonbooks) | TikTok Facebook @drobertsonbooks Facebook#middlegradebooks #videopodcast #authorinterview Chapters00:00 meet author Dana Robertson01:47 What is The Abandoned Theater about?02:40 Why are memories important?03:52 How did your childhood experiences affect the writing of the Abandoned Theater?05:47 How do memories lead us in the decisions we make in our lives?06:50 What would life be like without memories?07:50 How have events in your recent life affected the creation of The Abandoned Theater?09:20 What would you hope a reader would take away from the topic of trust in your book?10:58 How and why did you create and use specific phrases?12:03 What was the hardest part to write?13:00 What was the most enjoyable part of writing the Abandoned Theater?13:50 What made you want to become a writer?14:37 What do you do to recharge?15:05 Advice from your main character?15:50 What did you learn through writing The Abandoned Theater?16:32 What do you hope readers take away?17:12 What is next for Dana Robertson?18:06 Dana’s book recommendation

Middle Grade author, Bobbie Pyron, absolutely wowed me with her newest book, Octopus Moon. This powerful novel in verse, about a preteen learning to understand and confront her depression, is a book that you will want on your shelves. Mental health book for kids. For more powerfully emotional books check out this author interview next https://youtu.be/7G8EtuaYHmc?si=BH7P9aizlIxUVGjr#middlegradebooks #authorinterview #videopodcast Find author Bobbie Pyronhttps://bobbiepyron.com/On FaceBook I can be found under Bobbie PyronOn Twitter, @Bobbie Pyron On Instagram, bobbiepyronauthorOctopus Moon by Bobbie Pyron https://www.amazon.com/Octopus-Moon-Bobbie-Pyron/dp/0593616294/The Last Unicorn by by Peter S. Beagle and Patrick Rothfuss https://www.amazon.com/Last-Unicorn-Peter-S-Beagle/dp/0451450523/Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo https://www.amazon.com/Because-Winn-Dixie-Kate-DiCamillo/dp/1536214353/Chapters00:00 Meet middle grade author Bobbie Pyron03:12 What is Octopus Moon About?04:52 What made Bobbie decide to write a middle grade book about a main character with depression?08:06 Has Bobbie written any other books in verse? And her experience writing a novel in verse12:36 Creating an ocean theme and why?15:07 What was the hardest part writing a book about depression?17:34 What was rewarding about writing a book about depression?19:47 How to approach a child/ first steps to find out if they have depression?24:13 If her main character wrote a letter to the author’s young self, what would she say?25:21 What is next for Bobbie Pyron?28:15 Bobbie’s book recommendation

Children make the best artists. Children make the best writers. And singers. And every other type of creators. Partly because they don't worry about the "rules." Partly because they aren't limited by fears. I was so touched by Lauren Wolk's beautiful new middle grade story about three creators who are becoming themselves, stepping into their own creativity, growing as people, and learning to be their best selves. I hope you enjoy this awesome interview with Newberry Honor author, Lauren Wolk. Find author Lauren Wolk http://www.laurenwolk.com/Instagram: @wolk.laurenFB: Lauren.Wolk.79Candle Island by Lauren Wolk https://www.amazon.com/Candle-Island-Lauren-Wolk/dp/0593698541/Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Moon-Margaret-Wise-Brown/dp/0060775858/#middlegradebooks #childrensliterature #authorinterview Chapters00:00 Meet author Lauren Wolk and author ice breaker03:21 What the book Candle Island is about.05:30 What does art mean to the creator?07:10 What to tell someone who feels scared to try to start creating art?09:31 Should we share our art creations?11:10 What does the art mean to the recipient?12:25 When you created something with a certain emotion, but someone took away something different than expected.13:55 Could anyone be a creator (artist/writer)?16:13 Should we become artists to make money?17:43 When you wrote Candle Island, what did you have in mind for the story?21:01 What does the bird character represent in the book?23:08 Who am I becoming? And how can art help you become who you are/or will be?28:52 Lauren’s book recommendation